20 Euro Native Birds Pirol 1/8oz Gold 2017 (G)
🇩🇪 20 Euro Native Birds – Golden Oriole 2017 (G) – 1/8 oz Gold Coin – Elegant depiction of a shy treetop bird
The 20 euro gold coin “Native Birds – Golden Oriole” (Heimische Vögel – Pirol) from 2017 is part of the German series dedicated to selected bird species, presenting their characteristic appearance in a calm and clearly structured design. The golden oriole is known for its striking appearance and distinctive call and represents vitality and presence in the treetops within the series. The issue with the mint mark “G” was struck at the mint in Karlsruhe, making it clearly identifiable.
The obverse (design side) features the golden oriole perched on a branch in a side view. The body is slightly inclined forward, creating a subtle sense of tension. The form of the bird is clearly defined, and the structure of the plumage is indicated through fine line work. Despite the reduced design, the characteristic shape of the oriole remains clearly recognizable. The branch is kept simple and integrates harmoniously into the composition. Surrounding inscriptions include “PIROL” and the year 2017, arranged clearly and evenly.
The reverse (value side) displays the federal eagle, the emblem of the Federal Republic of Germany. The depiction is modern and stylized, with clean lines and balanced proportions. Surrounding inscriptions include “BUNDESREPUBLIK DEUTSCHLAND”, the denomination 20 EURO, and the mint mark “G”. The even distribution of elements creates a calm and structured overall composition.
The strike is fine and precise. The details of the plumage and the contours of the eagle are cleanly modeled and clearly separated. Light moves evenly across the gold surface, subtly highlighting the individual design elements. The combination of smooth and lightly textured surfaces gives the coin a balanced relief depth.
The coin is composed of 1/8 ounce of fine gold (3.89 g) with a purity of .9999 gold. The material exhibits a warm, even luster that enhances the clear line work and emphasizes the fine details of the strike. With a diameter of approximately 17.5 mm and a thickness of about 1.2 mm, the coin has compact and well-balanced proportions.
The design combines the depiction of a lively bird with clear state symbolism. While the golden oriole introduces a subtle sense of movement through its posture and lines, the federal eagle complements the coin with its official function. The overall composition remains calm and balanced.
Within the “Native Birds” series, the golden oriole occupies a distinctive position. Compared to other motifs, its depiction appears slightly more open and lighter, while still maintaining the clear structure of the series. The reduced visual language reinforces this effect.
Overall, this issue represents a precise and understated interpretation of a characteristic bird. The combination of clear design, fine minting, and the mint mark “G” gives the coin a calm and timeless appearance within the Native Birds series.
| Metal | Gold |
| Form | Gold Coin |
| Country of Origin | Germany |
| Issuer | Staatliche Münze Baden-Württemberg Karlsruhe |
| Manufacturer | Verkaufsstelle für Sammlermünzen der BRD |
| Series | 20 Euro Native Birds |
| Purity | 999.9/1000 |
| Fineweight | 3.89 gram |
| Gross Weight | 3.89 gram |
| Denomination (oz) | 1/8 oz |
| Year of issue | 2017 |
| Grade | Brilliant |
| Condition | Circulated |
| Face value | 20 Euro |
| Thickness | 1.15 mm |
| Diameter | 17.50 mm |
| Mintage | 40000 |
| Packaging | Capsule with Certificate |
| Packaging Unit | Set 6 Coins with certificate in Coin Etui |